The engine’s most notable feature is its use of Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), a first for the subcompact category. By precisely controlling the injection of fuel, GDI allows for better fuel economy, increased power, and reduced emissions. The application of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts allows for further improvements in efficiency, fuel economy, and emissions.

Accent rides on a 2,570 mm wheelbase and is 1,700 mm in width, representing an increase of 70 mm and 5 mm respectively over the outgoing model. As a result, Accent enjoys superior interior volume and passenger space. Total length of the new model is 4,370 mm for 4-door versions and 4,115 mm for the 5-door.

While the car’s exterior dimensions are consistent with those of traditional subcompacts, Accent is classified by Transport Canada as a compact sedan thanks to its interior volume. To provide perspective, Accent 4-door features more total interior volume than the Honda Civic.

2012 Hyundai Accent image gallery:

Hyundai doesn’t believe that consumers should have to pay a premium for safety, so a long list of safety features are included as standard equipment on all 2012 Accent models. A total of six airbags protect occupants in the event of a collision, including two front impact airbags, two front seat-mounted side impact airbags, and curtain side-impact airbags for front and rear passengers. Active front head restraints and seatbelt pretensioners work in conjunction with the airbag system to aid in preventing injury.

The Accent’s underlying structure is engineered to protect occupants using a Collision Load Dispersion mechanism. The vehicle’s structure distributes the force of an impact in three ways to minimize floor deformation and maintain the integrity of the cabin.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Traction Control work together to help deliver confident handling in all conditions. Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) integrates control of the ESC and motor-driven power steering (MDPS) to provide handling assistance in slippery conditions or in sudden cornering scenarios. The system can deliver up to 8 Newton-meters of counter-steering effort when required to assist the driver in maintaining control of the vehicle.

A key safety element for any vehicle is its braking system. Accent is the only car in the subcompact segment to offer four wheel disc brakes as standard. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) featuring Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA) is also included. EBD examines the effect of vehicle load on weight distribution and apportions the braking force between front and rear axles so as to maximize stopping ability. In the event of a panic stop, BA ensures that maximum braking force is applied. [Source: Hyundai]